Interweave News

CHAPS "Reverse Advent Bags"

HIV+/AIDS affected individuals have compromised immune systems and keeping themselves and their homes safe from bacteria and viruses is crucial to maintaining their health and the health of their families. SNAP cards (food stamps) only allow one to purchase edible items—no toilet paper, soap, toothpaste, deodorant,feminine hygiene products, household disinfectants, etc.So, CHAPS Food & Hygiene Pantry, an all-volunteer, 501c3, non-profit pantry that serves over 210 South Sarasota County HIV+/AIDS clients and their dependents in North Port, Venice, Nokomis, Osprey and Englewood, provides 45 different hygiene items and household disinfectant products in addition to their food pantry items. They are collecting hygiene items of all varieties. They have provided us with ‘Reverse Advent Bags’, which you will find on the lanai during December. Please take a bag and, instead of receiving a daily advent gift, GIVE ONE! A list of suggested items will be provided, all of which can be purchased at Dollar stores; filled bags can be returned to the lanai any time during the month of December. Checks in lieu of items may be made out to CHAPS, Inc. and left at the office with Salli. Thank you for your generosity! For more info about CHAPS go to www.chapsfoodpantry.com or see Salli in the office.

Interweave Events

On Thursday, November 2nd, 1-3pm, we will discuss “At the Broken Places” in the sanctuary Mary Collins and Donald Collins, a parent and a transgender son, collaborated on this memoir, recounting their struggle with their differences as Donald Collins undertook medical treatment options to better align his body with his gender identity.

Come to the sanctuary on Thursday, November 9th 6-8pm, for an informative and affirming event to better understand the current issues and to provide an outreach to the transgender community in our area. At the Transgender Remembrance Panel Discussion (clergy, professionals, families in transition and (we hope, transgender individuals), you will learn more about the "T" in LGBTQI, learn about transgender history and current issues facing the transgender community, hear personal stories, and be able to participate in a Q and A session. There will be social time and light refreshments after the presentation.